Charleston, W.Va. – Thunderstorms will expand across West Virginia on Wednesday, raising the risk of localized flash flooding in several communities. While much of the state is in need of rainfall, the National Weather Service warns that repeated downpours over the same areas could cause rapid flooding in low-lying or poorly drained locations.
According to the National Weather Service Charleston office, rain chances will surge to between 65% and 80% for many cities by Wednesday afternoon, including Huntington, Charleston, and Logan. The highest rain probabilities will occur between noon and 6 p.m., when storms are expected to become more frequent and slow-moving.
Areas most vulnerable include southern counties such as Beckley, Pineville, and Grundy, where soils may quickly saturate. Motorists should avoid driving through flooded roadways, as even shallow water can sweep away vehicles. Residents are urged to monitor weather updates, especially if living near streams or creeks that respond quickly to heavy rain.
Storm activity should ease late Wednesday night, but additional showers may linger into Thursday morning. The flood risk could persist if more storms redevelop later in the week.
